Key part of Sydney Harbour to stay a port

WALKERS and cyclists could get access to Rozelle Bay in Sydney Harbour but most of the area would remain as a working port under a NSW government strategy.

Ports Minister Duncan Gay said the government understood public demand for recreational foreshore space but this should not compromise the employment and economic role the working port played at the 80-hectare Bays Precinct.

"This government is absolutely committed to the working harbour, as it is vital to NSW's economy and future growth," Mr Gay said on Tuesday.

The precinct is bounded by the suburbs of Balmain, Rozelle, Lilyfield, Annandale, Glebe and Pyrmont and takes in the foreshore areas around Rozelle Bay, Blackwattle Bay and White Bay.

It includes the White Bay Power Station, Rozelle Rail Yards and Sydney Fish Markets.

NSW Planning Minister Brad Hazzard released the findings of a taskforce charged with developing a strategic framework for the Bays Precinct for the next 25 years.

He said the state government had committed to maintaining the Bays Precinct as a working port but would free up areas in Blackwattle Bay and Rozelle Bay for public access, as leases expired.

The government announced an investigation of new recreational space including pedestrian and cycle access at the head of Rozelle Bay.

"I am very conscious of the changing demographics of the inner west and the demand for more sporting fields, recreation facilities," Mr Hazzard said.

"This is definitely part of the strategic picture for the Bays Precinct, and I believe it can be done."

Mr Gay pointed out that about 250 hectares of industrial and waterfront land in the inner west had been rezoned in the past 20 years as new commercial, residential and open space.

"There is scope, as leases expire, for certain industrial activities within the Blackwattle and Rozelle Bays to be consolidated," he said.

"This will free up areas for greater public access and better boating facilities."